Scientific support for growth, jobs and sustainability: the example of the eco-industries
Published on: 20/04/2012

The European Commission's in-house science service, the Joint Research Centre, is organising on 15 May a conference on "Scientific support for growth, jobs and sustainability: the example of the eco-industries".

Eco-industries produce goods and services to measure, prevent, limit, minimise or correct environmental damage to water, air and soil as well as problems related to waste and eco-systems. They have a significant innovation and technological potential, which can create economic growth and jobs at local level. Already, eco-industries account for more than 3.4 million direct jobs in the EU and have a turnover of more than € 300 billion (2.5% of the EU's GDP).

The major characteristic of European Eco-Industries is their diversity but also thier potential and the need of additional scientific support. Activities range from high-tech products and complex services in renewable energy, energy efficiency and air quality control to mature and well established applications in recycling and water and waste treatment. The EU's lead in many sectors (water; air quality; waste; energy efficiency; and renewable energy sources) gives a strong potential for growth and generates qualified jobs at local level.

The main actors involved in eco-industries from the science and research, policy and business communities are invited to attend this conference to identify the key research and policy priorities, both for the eco-industries sector as a whole and the relevant sub-sectors.

The conference will take place in Brussels, in the Charlemagne building (Alcide di Gasperi auditorium) from 09:00h to 17:30h on 15 May.